CHITWAN: A task force formed by the Ministry of Home Affairs to investigate the disappearance of two buses and their passengers in the Trishuli River has officially commenced its work.

The landslide that struck Simaltal in Chitwan Metropolis-29 last Friday swept away the two passenger buses.

Upon taking office, newly appointed Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak established the task force, led by Joint Secretary Chhabi Rijal, to thoroughly examine the incident and compile a report.

The task force has a 10-day mandate to conduct its investigation and submit findings.

All 65 passengers aboard the buses are currently missing. So far, the bodies of 17 missing passengers have been recovered, while the status of the remaining individuals remains unknown.